CCB hits the street to watch for unlicensed construction activity
The Construction Contractors Board (CCB) has hit the streets from the valley to the coast, looking for thieves pretending to be legitimate contractors.
CCB’s Field Investigators are keeping their eyes open for unlicensed construction activity that often surfaces after homes and businesses are damaged by weather events.
Additionally, they are providing home and business owners that were damaged by the early fall storm, information to prevent construction-related fraud.
“The urgency of getting your home or business repaired by a licensed contractor is important,” says Craig P. Smith, CCB Administrator. “But don’t get taken in by scam artists and thieves that play on the situation.”
Smith has a word for unlicensed contractors and construction scammers too, “Stay away.”
Though most contractors are honest and provide good services, homeowners should be proactive and can easily take steps that will help prevent themselves from being victimized.
- Be wary of unlicensed contractors going door-to-door to repair damage.
- Be suspicious of contractors who want you to pay 100% upfront or in cash.
- Always check with the CCB to make sure the contractor is properly licensed through the agency website www.oregon.gov/CCB, or 503-378-4621.
A CCB license offers some financial protection to consumers through the business’ bond and insurance.
The CCB is the state agency licensing more than 36,000 contractors. Anyone who is paid to repair, improve or build a home must be licensed by the CCB. Free consumer publications with helpful tips are available at the CCB’s website and 503-378-4621.